Patio Cleaning

Patio cleaning in Sussex

We were recently called out to a property in the heart of Sussex to help a homeowner whose patio had become a real safety concern over the damp winter months. The natural stone surface had lost its charm, becoming heavily covered in a thick layer of green algae and stubborn black spot lichen. Beyond just looking untidy, the buildup had made the area incredibly slippery underfoot, meaning the family could no longer enjoy their outdoor space safely.

Assessing the natural stone surface

With over twenty years of experience in exterior cleaning, we knew exactly how to approach this one. We began by carefully clearing the area and assessing the specific needs of the stone. The pointing between the slabs was in good condition, and we wanted to keep it that way. Rather than simply turning up the pressure, which can often cause more harm than good on older patios, we planned the work to protect the delicate joints throughout.

Using the right pressure and treatment

We used our professional-grade jet washing equipment with adjustable pressure controls throughout the job. This allowed us to lift the surface grime effectively without scouring the face of the stone. To tackle the deep-rooted black spot and lichen, we applied a specialist biodegradable chemical treatment designed to break down the organic spores at the root. We allowed this to dwell for the appropriate time, ensuring a uniform finish across the whole terrace before carrying out a thorough, low-pressure rinse to wash away all residues and debris.

A safer, brighter patio

The difference was immediate, revealing the natural variations in the stone that had been hidden for months. The once dull and dangerous surface was returned to its original bright tones, and more importantly, it was now slip-resistant for the owners to walk on. We also cleared away all the displaced material and left the area tidy before we finished.

Keeping on top of organic growth

To help the patio stay looking its best for longer, we advised the customer to carry out regular sweeps to prevent leaf litter from breaking down and to consider a professional soft wash every year or two to stay ahead of organic growth. It was good to bring this garden feature back to life and see the practical difference it made to the property. If you are based in Burgess Hill, Haywards Heath, or the wider Sussex area and your patio needs a professional refresh, please get in touch with us for a chat.